Musician Utilizes Effects Pedals for Main Riff and Solo Recording

could argue that one of the best songs that lead guitarist Ace Frehley ever wrote and sang with Kiss was Rocket Ride. Released on the band’s second double-live album, Alive II, in 1977, Frehley had only one lead vocal track under his belt with Shock Me from the Love Gun studio album earlier that year. Confidence in his singing voice grew after touring and performing Shock Me live, leading to the creation of Rocket Ride.

Within the album, Alive II featured four sides, three of which were live recordings while the final side contained new studio tracks. Among these tracks, Rocket Ride stood out with its slinky, flange-infused riff intended to mimic the take-off of a rocket, featuring not one but two scorching guitar solos. Frehley handled all guitars and bass on Rocket Ride, with Peter Criss on drums. Interestingly, legends Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons were reportedly not involved in the recording of this particular song.

Reflecting on his progression from Shock Me to Rocket Ride, Frehley shared, “Once I had a track under my belt, it gave me confidence. It made me realize that Paul and Gene weren’t the only lead singers in the band. I still don’t consider myself a lead singer, but after Shock Me and Rocket Ride, a lot of other people do.”

Discussing his creative process, Frehley revealed that Rocket Ride, like most of his work, was organic and unplanned. He would bring ideas to the studio, experiment, and let the music flow naturally. While he used a flange effect on the main riff and a wah-wah pedal on the solo for Rocket Ride, Frehley admitted that the creative process was spontaneous and not meticulously planned out. With experience, he learned to trust his instincts and deliver raw, authentic performances without overthinking or overplanning.

In his younger years, Frehley recalled trying to meticulously plan out guitar solos, only to have them scrapped by producers. By the time he recorded Rocket Ride, he had honed his craft to the point where he could simply hit record and let his creativity take over. Frehley shared, “Hit the record button, and I’ll let it rip!” His approach was more about capturing the moment authentically rather than adhering to a perfectionist mindset.

Rocket Ride remains a cult classic among Kiss fans, showcasing Frehley’s raw talent and uncompromising creativity. The song stands as a testament to his evolution as both a guitarist and a vocalist within the iconic band. With its unique sound and electrifying solos, Rocket Ride solidifies Ace Frehley’s place as a rock legend and a creative force to be reckoned with.